Currently, many articles are being published about the anticipated loss of productivity that is expected from matches followed, “and the after effects to be experienced”, by employees during the FIFA World Cup 2010. I would like to add another perspective on this matter. South Africa is a nation with many successes and has much to be proud about. Yet, we have a culture of pessimism that almost always focuses on the negative and what we have not done correctly, or rather, what we have not achieved yet!
I say that the staging and hosting of this event is an opportunity for us to take some much deserved time-out from the political bickering, office politics and daily stresses to “chillax” a little and to celebrate, with our international visitors, the truly wonderfulness of all it is we have; the beautiful lands, sky, stadia, peoples and history that are all uniquely South African.
Think about it for a minute. What other developing country has what we have, achieved what we have, and can bask in the wonderfulness of what it is that we have to share! The down time from this World Cup event will be returned many times over in the future. It will be in the form of employees who are renewed in energy, mind and spirit, and that will want to reengage, and seek new ways of cooperation with one another.
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Beautifully laid out!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. The world cup is a unique event which unites the whole planet. It offers people a chance to forget about their troubles and celebrate all that is good about their nation.
ReplyDeleteThe positivity generated from staging the World Cup and hosting millions of people from all over the world, will leave a lasting legacy which will prove to be a catalyst for the continued development of the country.
I’d like to wish the South African team well (but not at the expense of England!) but more importantly congratulate the people of South Africa on what will surely be the most colourful (and noisy!) World Cup ever.
Jon Swindell
Viva South Africa, Viva!
ReplyDeleteAs a young new nation, we have indeed managed to achieve much in a short period of time. Think back to pre-Soccer World Cup Finals where many were falling back into the "usual" rut of thinking - and saying - that we would never be ready and that FIFA would be better off hosting the tournament in Australia! Well, in spite of strikes, labour unrest, negative thinking, and other challenges, we have come out tops and are currently hosting a truly memorable SWC!
Since the celebration concert the night before the opening ceremony and first game, I have felt an immense sense of pride in what we have achieved - and will still be achieving in future! Apart from the super-professional broadcasts and our super-class stadiums, the spirit of our people has impressed me the most!
Now is the time to make a choice: focus on our successes as a nation and feel the pride...or sit in a corner and wait for it all to end! I choose to believe in potential and to strive towards building our nation!
These reflections carry valuable insights for leaders and management. Inspire the organization and its stakeholders with the development of a compelling vision for the future. Communicate openly and regularly on the progress that is being made on projects. Address criticism head on, and use it in an advantageous manner in dealing with any shortcomings. Nothing succeeds like success! So make use of past successes to assist with remaining focused and motivated. Don’t be afraid to celebrate and reward achievements before setting sail for the next horizon!
ReplyDeleteabsolutely, and I don't think that our team's loss should cloud what you've said...
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